Edson Baraukwa | Africa Guardian
Ireland has formally intervened in South Africa’s genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), filing a declaration of support on Monday.
The decision follows a motion passed by Ireland’s Parliament in November and a Cabinet vote in December, asserting that “genocide is being perpetrated before our eyes by Israel in Gaza.”
Ireland’s intervention is based on the 1948 Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, which Israel is accused of violating. South Africa’s case claims that Israel’s actions in Gaza, including the killing of Palestinians, inflicting harm, and creating conditions that could lead to their destruction, amount to genocide.
Echoing South Africa’s accusations, Ireland argues that Israel’s actions breach multiple articles of the Convention, including those related to causing serious harm and extermination. Ireland’s legal filing emphasizes that the term “intent” in the Convention includes not just the perpetrator’s direct purpose but also the foreseeable consequences of their actions.
The case, originally filed by South Africa in December 2023, has been criticized by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who called it “meritless.” The United States has reiterated its support for Israel’s efforts in the fight against Hamas.
Israel has denied the genocide claims, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemning Ireland’s stance. Last month, Israel closed its embassy in Ireland after the country recognized Palestine as a state, which Israel labeled as antisemitic. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar also accused Ireland of “delegitimizing and demonizing” Israel.
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